News Release

Early morning traffic safety checkpoint results in 40 citations and 10 arrests

Date: December 8, 2021
Contact: Prashant Lotwala, 662-680-4014

TUPELO —–Tuesday morning Natchez Trace park rangers and Mississippi Highway Patrol troopers conducted a traffic safety checkpoint on Natchez Trace Parkway, just south of the City of Tupelo. Over 1000 vehicles were screened in a five-hour period.

The checkpoint was designed to remove impaired drivers, unlicensed drivers, and unlawfully operated vehicles from the Parkway during periods of peak traffic. “Many of our fatal accidents occur in the early morning hours and unlicensed drivers are a common factor in these crashes,” said Chief Ranger Prashant Lotwala. There were ten arrests, 24 vehicles were towed, 40 tickets were issued, and 11 warnings were given. Of the arrests, six were for driving under the influence, one was for an out-of-state felony warrant, and three were associated with an ongoing criminal investigation.  

“Based on what we’ve seen this morning, impaired drivers and unlawfully operated vehicles continue to be a problem,” said District Ranger John Hearne, “Expect to see more checkpoints and an increased level of patrol activity along the Parkway as we work to keep the Parkway safe for everyone.”